World Elder Abuse Day: These Statistics Will Shock You

World Elder Abuse Day: These Statistics Will Shock You Typically, adults become physically frail and develop health issues as they age. As a result, many elders find it difficult to care for themselves alone, seeking assistance from family members or caretakers. Because of this, many elders are unfortunately at risk of abuse when under someone else’s care. As World Elder Abuse Day approaches, it is vital to educate yourself on the signs of elder abuse to protect yourself and your loved ones. Current research emphasizes an evident need for reform in elderly care.

• 1 in 10 Americans aged 60+ have experienced some form of elder abuse.
• Only 1 in 14 cases of elder abuse are reported.
• Elders who have been abused have a 300% higher risk of death compared to those who have not been victims of abuse.
• The global population of people aged 60 years and older will more than double, from 900 million in 2015 to about 2 billion in 2050.

The different types of elder abuse:

1. Physical abuse: Physical abuse occurs when elders experience intentional physical force that results in pain, illness, injury, and even death. Most elders are not physically able to protect themselves from abusers.
2. Sexual abuse: Sexual abuse involves forced or unwanted sexual interaction. This includes unwanted sexual contact and sexual harassment. Elders may not have the ability to communicate their disapproval or consent due to health conditions.
3. Psychological Abuse: Psychological abuse or emotional abuse refers to verbal or nonverbal behaviors that cause fear or distress. This includes acts of humiliation, threats, harassment, and isolation. Acts like these put a strain on many elder’s mental health.
4. Neglect: Neglect occurs when caretakers fail to meet the elder’s basic needs. Basic needs include food, water, shelter, clothing, hygienic essentials, and medical care.
5. Financial Abuse: Financial abuse is the improper and unsolicited use of an elder’s money, benefits, property, or assets for the benefit of anyone other than the elder.

Elder abuse is typically perpetrated by family members, friends, assisted living facility staff members, or other residents. It is important to be aware of the different types and signs of elder abuse in order to hold those involved accountable for their actions. Wyatt Law Firm: Seeking justice for elder abuse victims When you or a loved one have been a victim of elder abuse, you need an attorney who is compassionate enough to understand your circumstance, yet aggressive enough to give you the results you deserve. At Wyatt Law Firm, we are dedicated to seeking justice for community members who have been victims of unforeseen circumstances. Let us fight for the justice you deserve today. Our team of proficient attorneys have a proven approach that holds those involved responsible for the lives they have altered. By giving us a call, you are guaranteed a free consultation. Additionally, if there is no recovery, there is no fee. Call us today at 210-340-5550 or fill out a confidential fact sheet and we will get right back to you. Get a fighter on your side today!